Lessons from the Field: What Improv Teaches Us About Collaboration

Abstract

In this article, we delve into the ways that our working relationships benefit from techniques derived from improvisational comedy. This is not as unusual as it might seem at first glance: major corporations have long used consultants from Second City, Upright Citizens Brigade, and other established improv centers to foster collaboration, improve communication, and increase resilience among staff. These techniques help us navigate the shifting landscape of library partnerships, as well as through changing roles and responsibilities, promotions, and reorganizations. We share our techniques through an immersive workshop, and offer a few of its take-away lessons here.